Havdalah

It’s a wondering feeling to grow in one’s faith. I feel like every day I read the Scriptures something new, beautiful, unique, and sacred arises. I’m reading through Leviticus right now, which stresses the importance of making a distinction between the sacred and the common. Havdalah is such a distinction that I’ve welcomed into my life with joy.

I feel like I walked into Fort Knox when I began to honor the Shabbat with a small family Erev Shabbat service on Friday nights. The reading of the Scriptures, the kosher wine and homemade challah bread, cholent stew, candles (lit before the sunsets), beautiful prayers, and a chance to do something godly as a family was only the beginning of the blessings. Entering into Sabbath day rest and worship was like the jelly in my sufganiyot: tasty, sweet, and rich.

And then I learned about the beauty of Havdalah. In Hebrew, Havdalah means “separation”. When you enter the Sabbath, you read certain passages of Scripture, bless the wine, bread, family, and Israel. It is a physical reminder of the spiritual truth that the Shabbat is the only day the Lord specifically set aside as the day of rest and worship. When you close the Sabbath, you participate in Havdalah. It is a physical reminder of a spiritual truth that the holy day of rest is coming to an end and the common things are beginning again. The week stretches on blankly ahead, ready for the taking.

Our Havdalah service is approximately 5 minutes long. The beginning prayer is simple: Baruch Hamavdil bain kodesh lichol (Blessed is He who separates between the Holy and the mundane). We re-read Exodus 20:11- “For in six days Adonai made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them, but on the seventh day He rested. This is why Adonai blessed the Shabbat and separated it for himself.”

Then the leader says this beautiful acknowledgement: “Indeed, God is my deliverance. I am confident and shall not fear, for God the Lord is my strength and song, and He has been a help to me. You shall draw water with joy from the wellsprings of deliverance. Deliverance is the Lord’s. May Your blessing be upon Your people forever. The Lord of hosts is with us the God of Jacob is our everlasting stronghold. Lord of hosts, happy is the man who trusts in You. Lord deliver us. May the King answer us on the day we call.”

The others listeners respond: “For our fathers there was light and joy, gladness and honor—so let it be with us. I will raise the cup of deliverance and invoke the Name of the Lord.”

Then we bless the wine: Baruch Atah, Adonai, Eloheynu, Melekh ha-olam, Borey p’ri ha-gafen
(Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the Universe, who creates the fruit of the vine). We pray for a good week and read Isaiah 20:7-8 “Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the LORD which sanctify you.” What a fitting verse to begin your week with!

Then we break out the spices, which remind us of the sweetness of the Sabbath day, which is now passed. We say: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam borei minei v’samim (We praise You, Eternal God, Sovereign of the universe, Creator of all spices). We read Psalms 34:8-9- “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. O fear the LORD, ye his saints: for there is no want to them that fear him.” We praise God for the good Shabbat we just experienced.

Next, we light the double wicked candle and say: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, borei m’orei ha-eish (We praise You, Eternal God, Sovereign of the universe, Creator of fire). We read Psalms 18:28-30 and specifically verse 28, “For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness.”

With the Havdalah candle lit, we recite this prayer to usher in the next week:

Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu Melech haolam, hamavdil bein kodesh l’chol, bein or l’choshech, bein Yisrael laamim, bein yom hash-vi-i l’sheishet y’mei hamaaseh. Baruch atah Adonai, hamavdil bein kodesh l’chol (We praise You, Eternal God, Sovereign of the universe: You distinguish the commonplace from the holy; You create light and darkness, Israel and the nations, the seventh day of rest and the six days of labor. We praise You, O God: You call us to distinguish the commonplace from the holy).  

So what’s the big hullabaloo about Havdalah? Is it absolutely necessary to usher in the new week this way? No but it is a beautiful, fitting way to remind oneself that the Shabbat is a sacred day, the oldest treasure that God gave his people, and it is a good way to end something so wonderful. It’s a formal adios to the Sabbath day and a way to get your head back in the game. Six days of work are awaiting, no more rest. The Havdalah service creates a sort of nostalgia to return to the sacredness of the presence of the Lord. It is that last snapshot of the Shabbat to cherish until next time. It intensifies the desire to return to the sacred place of absolute rest and fellowship with the Sovereign, Holy King of the Universe.

That’s why Havdalah is a welcomed tradition for my household….

Prayers for Kenya (Last on the WW List)/ Psalms 37-Jehovah Jireh

Kenya

Although there is full freedom of religion and much of the population professes to be Christian, the church faces severe persecution from Muslims on the north eastern border with Somalia. In some areas, an increase in persecution is the result of aggressive evangelism by the church. There is great pressure on Christian leaders in the Muslim-dominated communities and some have been won over by Muslim leaders.

Population: 34.3 million

Christian Population: 67%

Leader: President Mwai Kibaki

Pray

• For strength and faithfulness for Christian leaders working in Muslim-dominated areas
• For greater unity among the churches in the north eastern and coastal regions of the country
• For churches and Christian organizations working with Somali refugees.
• Pray that many would be transformed by God’s love.  (Open Doors USA)

*Kenya is the 50th most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian. This country closes the prayers for the persecuted list. Which I will review from time to time. Continue to pray for the countries mentioned. Please go to www.opendoorsusa.org for more information on the Persecuted Church.

PSALMS 37- JEHOVAH JIREH

Tonight I’m super tired after a successful day. Remember to pray for Khloe, my first real day at work tomorrow, and for LJ’s new daycare.  Tonight I’m concentrating on God as Jehovah Jireh (The Lord Provides). I’m overwhelmed by the truth of his provision and am highlighting the phrases I like in this Psalm and then I say goodnight. Tomorrow, I’ll double up on John. ALSO PRAY FOR THE NATIONAL FUNDRAISER “LOVE ASIA BY RADIO”.

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the LORD, and do good. so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD, trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath. Fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off. But those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be. Yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.  The Lord shall laugh at him. For he seeth that his day is coming. The wicked have drawn out the sword, and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, and to slay such as be of upright conversation. Their sword shall enter into their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken but the LORD upholdeth the righteous. The LORD knoweth the days of the upright and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD shall be as the fat of lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away. The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again but the righteous sheweth mercy, and giveth. For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off. The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth and his seed is blessed. Depart from evil, and do good and dwell for evermore. For the LORD loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints.They are preserved for ever. But the seed of the wicked shall be cut off. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein for ever. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart. None of his steps shall slide. The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him. The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land. When the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.

Prayers for Palestinian Territories and John 7-Thirsty for Jesus

Palestinian Territories

*As Christians, we often pray for the peace in Israel. We weep for the Jews to recognize Jesus as the Messiah. We cry for the terrors that occur in the Holy City of Jerusalem and we mourn for those who die in terrorist attacks. Honestly, before tonight, I have never prayed for peace to come along the Arab side of the border. Shame on me. Yes, the Jews are God’s chosen people but Jesus died for Muslims too, if only they would accept that. Palestine deserves peace and the Gospel as much as the Jews do. Tonight I pray for the Arabs in a conflicted land to look to Jesus for peace.

The Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip last year left over 1,300 dead and thousands homeless. Many believers had already left, pressured by the growing influence of radical Islam, and particularly the murder of the Christian bookshop manager in 2007. Those who remain stay because they cannot afford to leave or feel called to share the Gospel. In Gaza and the West Bank, Christians share in the desperate economic situation. (Open Doors USA)

Population: 4 million

Christian Population: 1%

Leader: President Mahmoud Abbas

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray that the Christians of Palestine would be a beacon of hope and peace among the conflict.

2) Pray for strength and courage for the Christians there who are of Muslim backgrounds.

3) Pray that the Palestinian governments and Israeli governments reach a peaceful agreement about settlements.

4) Pray for the Children of both Palestine and Israel who are growing up in conflict. This should not be. War affects children because silly men can’t put their differences aside. “Even so, come Lord Jesus”.

John 7- Living Water and other comforting passages

I really shouldn’t take on so much controversial reading in one night. Tonight I’ve read the Statement of Authenticity of the Qur’an, several chapters of the First book of Nephi from the Book of Mormon, summaries on Nathaniel Hawthorne’s works, taken an American Literature exam, and debated on an online forum for Evolution. My brain hurts and I’m in need for the peace that comes from reading the ONLY TRUE and AUTHENTIC WORD OF GOD. Hurray!

I’m focusing tonight on John 7:37-38, “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, ‘If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.'”

Jesus is my Living Water. I’m thirsty for him. I love reading verses that speak of the quenching power of the Word of God (personified in Jesus Christ). Tonight’s devotion is simple: Jesus can satisfy you completely. If you are thirsty for the truth, you will find it in him.

Psalms 42:1, 2,7, 11 “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.  My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God? Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts.All thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God. For I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

Isaiah 12:1-3 “And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee. Though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. Behold, God is my salvation. I will trust, and not be afraid. For the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song. He also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.”

Isaiah 44:3 “For I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground. I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring.”

John 4:14 “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst. But the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”

Prayer Requests:

1) If all goes well, Khloe gets to come home tomorrow! Pray that she returns home safely and remains there. Also pray that the Sassman families experience some rest in the next few days. If any one deserves rest, it’s the Sassmans!

2) Pray for the needs of the Palestinian Territories.

3) Pray for any lost friend or family member you have by name.

4) Pray for my friend Nancy’s husband to find a good Christian mentor to council him. They are currently separated.

Dear Lord, Yet again, I stand before you exposed after meditating on my sinful nature. Continue to reveal the areas that displease you. Lord, as I confess my sins to you, cover me with your grace. Thank you God for grace and forgiveness. Thank you that you are the Living Waters and that whoever claims you as their Lord and Savior will never be thirsty. Thank you for the Words of Life that soothe me when the quest to really know you seems like such a hard journey. Lord, I lift up in prayer the people of Palestine. I pray that you bring peace to this region. Protect the Christians here. Let them be a beacon of peace, hope, and love to their Muslim neighbors. Let your people be part of the solution in Palestine. Keep both the Arab and Jewish Children safe from terrorists. Please come back soon Lord and redeem this earth so that there will be true peace in the Middle East. I pray again for Steven and Mandy by name. I pray that you reach their hearts with love. Again, Lord, forgive me of my hard feelings toward Steven. I want to have integrity in how I handle my situation. I also pray that you’d bless Nancy and her husband’s marriage. Restore it. Convict her husband’s heart and soften it. Help him not to be afraid to fight for his marriage. Also, I pray for his salvation. Please send him a male Christian mentor to guide him to be a godly husband. Lord, I praise you for your work in the Sassman’s life. Please God, keep sweet Khloe safe and free from any future illness. Protect her and grant her and her family rest in their very own home. Amen.

Church Safari, Prayers for Nigeria, and Luke 12> Somehow they all fit together today!

Get Serious About Jesus. Don’t Waste Your Life.

That is my title today. It fits for my Church Safari, Prayers for the Persecuted, and Luke 12.

Church Safari

Today, I visited my aunt’s church because a missionary to Nigeria was speaking. I find it no coincidence that on the day that I am supposed to remember Nigeria in prayer, a missionary from Nigeria comes to speak about what’s going on there. Brother Joey and his wife run an orphanage in Opi and have made it their life’s work to rescue the street children. Currently they can afford to care for 22 sweet Nigerian children by providing school, clothes, shelter, food, and proper medical care. Four of their children are HIV positive. They desire to take in 200 children in their orphanage eventually.

Seven weeks ago, Brother Joey was shot in the face while taking neighborhood children to church in the church van. The robbers wanted to steal it and ended up shooting Joey in the face. But Joey knew that God had a plan in all of this. More people started praying for his ministry. More people became aware of the needs of Nigerian children. The people in his village can see that Joey and his wife will continue to love Nigeria because Jesus loves Nigeria and no bullets can stop them. They’ve witnessed a true life survival miracle. And because Brother Joey had to go back to the United States for a while, his wife went to a routine doctor’s visit, had an ultrasound, found early cancer and is getting surgery Perhaps if Brother Joey had not been shot, maybe his wife’s cancer would have advanced in Nigeria and gone untreated. See? God worked something good out of this bad situation. After Mrs. Starling’s surgery, they are going back to the land they love and to the children they love. I’m so glad I got to hear just another story of how God is working in real people’s life for his glory! Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Nigeria

*Hearing Bro. Joey’s story today made me even more motivated to pray for the people of Nigeria. It has also reminded me to pray for the safety of missionaries working in these lands who are our ambassadors in the Lord’s work. It’s not as safe as Americans may think it is. There is still persecution here and violence. There are still children in need of loving care and souls in need of Christ. Nigeria is the 27th most dangerous country in the world for Christians, especially in the Northern states. Though statistics say the country is 48% Christian, we must pray for unity of denominations that they would join together in taking a stand for the Gospel and for peace.

Twelve northern states have imposed Islamic law in the past eight years, and there have been repeated outbreaks of ethnic and religious violence claiming many lives. More than 100 Christians were killed during 2008 and the destruction of many churches and kidnapping of believers continued through the year. In November, communal violence in the city of Jos saw six pastors killed, 40 churches destroyed and 369 Christians seriously injured. (Open Doors Ministries)

Population: 148 Million

Christian Population: 48%

Leader: President  Umaru Yar’Adua

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray for comfort and healing for those caught up in the violence. Ask God to give courage to those living in fear of further attack.

2) Pray for wisdom and strength for church leaders as they face intimidation and try to restrain those who would retaliate.

3) Pray for Christian parents bringing up their children in the Northern Muslim states, especially the widows of the murdered pastors. Pray for their needs to be met and for God to put a hedge of protection around them.

4) Pray for the ministry of Bro and Mrs. Joey Starling, as well as all their helpers and Pastor Emmanuel.

For more information on how you can help pray for and support financially the orphanage in Opi, Nigeria visit http://www.aplaceofhopeafrica.org/.

Luke 12

Ok, I know this has been a big mishmash post but soon you’ll see a connection between my church experience today, the country I’m praying for, and my quiet time. Sometimes God really just makes things stick out to me. My heart has been soooo focused on missions these last few months. I know that he is leading me somewhere great to do something great for him. I feel it getting closer everyday. That mission may be in the US or it could be overseas. He has a mission for you too. Let’s see it together in Luke 12.

Have you ever wanted to be a servant for God but thought: there’s no money in that, I’m afraid, what if something goes wrong, what if I get hurt doing it? I think this all the time. But on the brink of me really discovering what it is I should be doing (whether I work at the hospital forever, get my Master’s in Chaplaincy, go overseas, or whatever), God sends me Luke 12, such a comforting passage on how he takes care of his servants. In this chapter, we see Jesus shattering our fears about being a servant.

What if I get hurt? I’m Afraid!

Vs. 4-5 (don’t fear those who can merely kill the body, fear the one who can cast the body into hell)

How will I make a living?

Vs. 22-28 (God clothes the grass, beautifies the lilies, and feeds the birds. You mean much more to him that these things. He will take care of you.)

Vs. 31-34 (God has promised to give you the kingdom when you seek him first and serve him. Store up treasure in heaven by doing good deeds, rather than amassing money on earth).

Vs 43 (God will bless you if you are found doing something for him. Don’t be found doing nothing.)

As I was reading this, it hit me. We often take verses like this out of context. Most Christians just assume that because they are merely Christians these verses apply to them. But they don’t. They apply to his servants. If you aren’t found serving, don’t be surprised if your needs aren’t being met and you still worry about silly worldly things. Jesus made this promise to his servants. This whole chapter applies to servants only. SO: if you want those blessings (freedom from fear, God taking care of your every need, the gift of the Kingdom, heavenly treasures) I suggest you take this verse to heart.

Luke 12:35- “Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning.” Basically, get ready to serve. No pain, no gain.

Prayer Requests:

1) Keep praying for Khloe. No update on her still. She has LOTS of surgeries and tests coming up before she can go home. Pray that she is alright and that her body responds well enough to all the tests and surgeries so she can go home soon!

2) Pray for the above listed requests for Nigeria and A Place for Hope Africa Ministry.

3) Pray that I get industrious and find a day care for LJ, get my finances in order, clean my house, and get my stuff ready for Grad school before work starts on October 24.

4) Continue to pray for Alyssa’s salvation.

Dear Lord, I come before you thanking you for the opportunity to be your servant. Help me to take advantage of this life you have given me and not waste it. Thank you for revealing the connection between church, prayers for Nigeria and my quiet time tonight. Thank you for Bro. Joey’s testimony, his work in Nigeria, and how you have worked a miracle in his and his wife’s life. Continue to heal them both. Bless the ministry of A Place for Hope Africa. Keep all the kiddos there safe. Provide all there needs and allow more funds to come in so that they can rescue more street children and children with HIV. Bless Bro. Emmanuel as he serves in Bro. Joey’s absence. Lord, may they be a blessing to their community. I pray also that your bring peace to the Northern states in Nigeria. Please bring healing to those parts and comfort those who lost loved ones due to violence against Christians. Provide for your servants needs in Nigeria and grant them courage and faith. Help the Christians there to unite and stand against persecution. Lord, bless sweet Khloe tonight. Give her a good nights rest and strength for her upcoming tests and surgeries. Please allow her to go home safely soon. Lord, please lead Alyssa to your cross and show her the meaning of grace. Protect her from unsound doctrine. Don’t give her peace until she meets your Son. Also Lord, help me to get lots done before I go back to work. Help me to find a good daycare for LJ and provide the funds. Also, let me know what is best concerning grad school. Use me wherever I’m at. Use me at the hospital to bring peace and safety to each situation and allow me to minister to people. Help me not to waste this job. This is an opportunity from you and you alone. Lead me Lord. Amen

 

 

Burma (Myanmar)

After 45 years of military rule, Burma is one of the poorest nations of Southeast Asia. The constitution does not provide for religious freedom and all religious (non-buddhist) organizations are monitored. Permits are required for religious gathers over 5 people. House church leaders are arrested for not having proper documentation. Christians here still face persecution from local buddhist clergy and village leaders. Pray for unity to come over the scattered house churches and for peace to make a way for religious freedom here.

*What confuses me most about when I see that persecution exists in Buddhist countries is the thought that the buddhist religion is supposed to be a religion of peace, respect for life, and self-meditation. But it just supports that without Christ, there cannot be peace.  Phillipians 4:7 says,  “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” The kind of peace that Myanmar needs is only from God by accepting Jesus as their savior.

Population: 48.8 million

Christian Population: 6.6%

Leader: General Than Shwe

Prayer Requests of the Myanmar People:

1) Pray for the ongoing relief effort for those still displaced by the Cyclone Nargis of 2008.

2) Pray for God to provide the daily needs of his followers there, many of whom are extremely poor and struggle for basic necessities.

3) Pray that God would soften the heart of authorities here to work toward common good and religious freedom for all.

Dear Lord, I pray that you bring the peace that passes all understanding to the Myanmar people through salvation in Jesus Christ. I pray that your protect each church leaders and Christians here. Please help any citizen who is still homeless after the cyclone here. Lord, provide the daily needs for your people here. Provide for them in miraculous ways so that they all have food, water, clothing, shelter and can find work. Please soften the hearts of the leaders here to be kind to their citizens and work toward the common good of the people. Let religious freedom come to this land so that people can choose in freedom which religion they should follow. Strengthen each church leader today and give them a special kind of encouragement to continue on. And Lord today my heart is heavy for Alyssa. I pray that she does not stop seeking you. Reveal yourself to her and show her how wonderful life is with you. I also pray this for Maur and Anon. Amen.

Pakistan

2 Thessalonians 3:1-3 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.  But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”

Though Paul wrote this letter to the Church at Thessalonica almost 2000 years ago, it still applies today. There are brothers and sisters in Pakistan that are needing to be uplifted in prayer. Open Door’s Minstries list Pakistan as the #13 most dangerous countries for Christians on their World Watch List. It actually suprises me that it is not farther up on the list. Persecution here is intense. Don’t forget to remember our brothers and sisters in Pakistan that are taking a stand for Jesus in a land clinched in Islam’s fist.

Population: 163.9 million

Christian Population: 2.4%

Leader: President Asif Ali Zadari

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray for God’s blessings on believers in literacy programs, that they may learn to read the scriptures and gain vital livelihood.

2) Pray for pastors facing difficult circumstances, that they may have wisdom, skill, and strength.

3) Pray for believers experiencing death threats and harassment.

4) Pray for Shahbaz Bhatti, the country’s 1st Christrian Federal Ministry for Minorities. Pray for his safety and positive influence on Pakistan.

*On average, one Christian is murdered and one Christian is arrested every month (mostly on blaspheme charges). Kidnapping, physical harassment, and destruction of Christians’ property and church buildings occur nearly every week. Discrimination faces Christians in daily life such as education, livelihood, and housing. Opening a church building is nearly impossible. Obviously, those trying to take a stand for Jesus take a risk. Pray for their protection and that their faith would lead their persecutors to Christ.

Dear Lord, Today I lift up the country of Pakistan to you. I pray that you protect the Christians there from harm. Please allow their faith to draw all men to you. Please bless your children as they learn how to read, so that they can read the Word of God for themselves and also get better jobs. Please be with the pastors as they lead their congregations in difficult time. Equip them will wisdom, skills, and strength for the job. Bless Shahbaz Bhatti as he represents minorities in his country. Give him wisdom and positive influence over Pakistan. Keep him safe as he does his job. Lord, bring peace and healing to this land. Bring aid to those who need it after the flood. Allow humanitarian aid to enter the country and bless these people. Help this land to find no peace in Allah. There is only peace in the True and Living God. Reveal yourself to Pakistan. Amen.

A little boy, desperate for food after the damage of the flood here. This beautiful country of mountains and crystal clear lakes has had a tragic earthquake in 2005 and now a flood. Pray for healing to come into the land.

Praying for Bhutan!

BHUTAN is located northeast of India. The culture is largely influenced by Buddhism. The landscape is utterly beautiful with mountain peaks, trees, and flowing fields of wheat. Recently, Bhutan held its first parliamentary election, a new king was crowned, a the constitution was revised. Things are changing here for the better. Let’s give God the praise but remember our brothers and sisters here that face community persecution for Christ.

Population: 658,000

Christian Population: 2%

Leader: King Jigme Wangchuck

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray that the small community of believers here will receive much needed training and teaching despite old restrictions.

2) Pray that the ban of visas for religious workers would be lifted and missionaries would come into Bhutan.

3) Pray that the young Christian children here would not lose hope as they face pressure at school to attend Buddhist festivals.

4) Pray that the Christian community would experience God’s provision despite peer pressure from the Buddhist monks and the villagers.

*The new King in Bhutan could be used as a tool by God. He has implemented a new constitution guaranteeing more religious freedom! However, the old laws make take a while to be changed. Here, it’s really the communities that persecute Christians rather than the government. The village monks’ influence make it hard for Christians to get jobs and proper education. Also, Christians cannot build church buildings in the villages. In harsher communities, Christians still must gather in complete secrecy. Peer pressure here is extreme. Pray that the government follows through on their plans to increase religious freedom and the villages would respect the new laws.

Dear Lord, I lift up my brothers and sisters in Bhutan. Help them not to lose hope in you if their communities reject them. I pray that you provide them with jobs, food, education, and the opportunity to gather publicly for church. Please strengthen the young Christian children as they take a stand for Jesus in their schools. Please soften the hearts of the villagers and Monks and help them to accept Christianity as a recognized religion. Please send missionaries to this land. May they come with supplies and training for pastors and those hungry to learn about the Gospel. Lord, I pray you that this country seems to be implementing positive laws. I pray that you would bless King Wangchuck with a successful life. Please use him as a vessel for your honor and glory. Please introduce Jesus to him on his journey toward spiritual enlightenment. Lord, send your hope and peace into the land that it may prosper. Amen.

There is something  very special about King Wangchuck. Spirituality is very important to him and he is leading his country with a plan called “Gross National Happiness” (a phrase unique to the Bhutanese people). He and this country are searching for peace and joy. Pray that they find it in Jesus Christ. Also, praise be to God! Along with the new King, Bhutan has become the world’s youngest democratic country. Pray that God blesses this 28 year-old king with wisdom and prosperity.

Eritrea and Top Ten Most Persecuted Lands Recap!

Eritrea

Do you know where your brothers and sisters in Christ of Eritrea are located on the globe? If not, I encourage you to look and find out. Research the history of the country so you know how to pray. Also, note that Eritrea is in a location where conflict surrounds its borders. Pray for peace and protection for the entire land. There has recently been a rise in arresting non-recognized members of Protestant churches. Many of these people are still awaiting trial after 2 years. The country seems torn over religion. Notice that the Christian population is quite large. Pray that the Christians, no matter what denomination, will unify and stand together for their religious freedom.

Population: 4.9 million

Christian Population: 45%

Leader: Isaias Afewerki

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray for comfort and provision for the families of those in prison. Many of these families have not heard from their loved ones since the religious round-up of October 2008.

2) Pray for those in prison to know God’s peace, grace, and hope as they long for freedom. Help them to feel his presence continually.

3) Pray for the church members who are pastoring the churches in the ministers’ absence. Pray that they may be strong and wise amid persecution.

*In May 2002, all religious groups other than Islam, Orthodox, Catholic, and Lutheran churches were outlawed without proper (and difficult) registration. Many believers of unregistered churches (such as Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh Day Adventist, etc) have been arrested and tortured. Three were killed in 2009. In October 2008, there was a great round-up of unregistered Christians, many of whom still await a proper trial. Pray that the government recognizes all denominations and that those in prison for their love of Jesus Christ would be released… TODAY!

Eritrea is a diverse land made up of several ethnic groups. There are also several religious factions as well. Pray for unity of tribes and unity of denominations as God continues to work in this land.

Top Ten Most Persecuted Countries Recap!

1) North Korea- remember those in labor camps. The government puts three generations at a time in prison in hopes to let Christ die out in families. But our God lives forever. Pray for their release!

2) Iran-remember the Christians who live under constant surveillance. Pray that they still shine brightly and that fear would be replaced by love.

3) Saudi Arabia- Pray God uses media tools like internet and Christian Satellite TV to draw Saudis to him.

4) Somalia- Pray for peace to take over the land and that it could recover from war. Also, remember to pray for the physical and spiritual needs of our brothers and sisters there.

5) The Maldives- Pray that Bibles and Christian literature would reach the citizens of the Maldives.

6)Afghanistan- Pray that Christians there that are either serving in armed forces or trying to set up businesses there would be a witness for Jesus Christ.

7) Yemen- Pray that God uses the internet and Christian Satellite TV to reach those curious about Jesus as well.

8) Mauritania- Pray that the hearts of the people would be softened toward the Gospel and for God to reveal himself.

9) Laos- Pray that the scattered and small churches would unify in their beliefs and continue to grow.

10) Uzbekistan- Pray that the church of Jesus Christ would continue to grow despite persecution. Remember Pastor Salavet and his family in your prayers. Pray that his ministry grows.

Dear Lord, I come before you lifting up 11 countries. Your word says “For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” All these countries belong to you. I pray that you would move and work in these countries. Comfort all those who have been persecuted. Put a hedge of protection around the Christians there. Lord, be with the Christians of Eritrea and help them not to lose hope in you. Please comfort the families of the imprisoned. Provide for their needs. Please comfort those in prisons. Surround them with your glory. Give them hope, grace, and peace. Lord, release them today! Soften the heart of their captors to release them so that they may return to their families and churches. Work a miracle there like you did for Paul and Silas. Release their chains today! Strengthen and enlighten your church and their interim leaders as they wait for their leader to come home… today! Lord, TODAY work a miracle in this land. Help all the denominations of this land to unify and grow together. Let Kingdom continue to grow there! Lord, today I also remember the lands of North Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, the Maldives, Afghanistan, Yemen, Mauritania, Laos, and Uzbekistan. You know the needs of your children in this country. I pray that you meet them. Lord, send missionaries and Bibles into these lands. Bless those who are in prison for their faith. Strengthen those who face persecution. Lord, change the hearts of their leaders. Soften the heart of the people toward the Gospel of Chirst. Also, please bless Maur and Anon with salvation. Move in all these countries and be a force. Lord, you are strong. You are stronger than any god. Show your love and power in these lands. Release these lands from the claws of the devil. Fill these lands with peace and love. Amen.

Mark 11

Jesus came to be the Prince of Peace. He came humbly and though many said they loved him, all too quickly he was cursed by those not willing to take up his cross and follow after him. Those who once cried out, “Hosanna. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord” would later cry out “Crucify”. When Christianity becomes the hard walk to walk, what will you do? I pray that we may be found standing up for Christ together. I suppose that is why I am trying so hard to refresh myself in the word. I want to know more about God and strengthen my faith in him, so that when the day comes for me to take a stand I’ll still be saying “Hosanna”.

In Mark we are reminded again of Jesus’ authority as he drives out the thieves from the temple. He says that his house should be called a house of prayer. What has the church become for you today? Do you look forward to it? Are you thankful for it? Has it become a social club to you or the place where you are refreshed? I pray that my own heart can be changed to appreciate the place of God as a resting place and not a club.

Finally, the last message of Mark 11 deals with faith. Jesus says that if we have faith you can tell a mountain to be thrown into the sea. If you have faith, whatever you ask you WILL have an answer to. Will you join me in faith to pray for the Church to return to be a House of Prayer? Will you pray in faith with me for the salvation of souls and the growth of churches in persecuted countries? I am so burdened for them. I pray that I have the faith to pray for peoples’ salvation and for religious freedom and the Lord hears me and answers my pleas.

SiDeNoTe!

I’d like to study another verse tonight as well. I have such a sense of urgency to remember our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters in Mauritania and Uzbekistan tonight. I’m not one to feel superstitious but I have a very foreboding feeling that there are Christians there tonight/today that are standing in the need of prayer.  Hebrews 13:3 (NIV) says, “Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” I ask that you lift up Pastor Salavat of Uzbekistan and his entire family as they have committed themselves to preach the Gospel no matter the cost. Though I don’t know their names, nor will I mention their city because I have “friends” in Mauritania that are mad at me right now, pray for a small house church that continues to worship Christ despite persecution. Pray that Bibles reach Mauritania and Uzbekistan so that people may be able to read for themselves and decide for themselves which God they should serve.

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray for Uzbekistan. Pray that the small number of believers there would grow. Pray for the family of my high school friend from Uzbekistan that they would be saved. Pray also for Pastor Salavat and his family.

2) Pray for the church in Mauritania that it would be protected and that the people there could worship you in freedom. Pray also that my “friends” there would experience the peace of Christ.

3) Continue to pray for Khloe! Her lungs are being “stretched and exercised” this week. They think she may get to be off her vent soon! Pray that she has a good week. And let’s praise the Lord together that she has felt good this week!!!!

4) Pray for me! I am going on a 2nd interview next Wednesday. Pray that God’s will would be done and he would lead me to the job that I could serve him most in.

5) Pray for LJ. He has a cold and is not sleeping well.

Dear Lord, I come to you with a great sense of urgency tonight in my heart. Lord, calm my heart and my fears. I lift up Pastor Salavat and his family to you. Bless his ministry and enlighten him as he reads the scriptures. Please help his congregation to grow and protect them. Also, bless the beautiful desert land of Mauritania with religious freedom and hope. I pray you bless the house church there with peace and prosperity. Please protect these sweet people from all harm. Thank you for their honest worship, which I was able to witness for myself tonight thanks to youtube. Lord, may my heart sing to you in sweet worship like theirs did. Also, please allow my friends there to come to Christ so that the peace of God may be shed abroad in their hearts. Lord, please be with Khloe. Continue to heal her body. I pray that her lungs get strengthened and that she can get off the vent soon. Please bless her with another great week. Also, be with her friend Duncan. Help him to recover fully from his surgery and help him to eat better. Please also help LJ overcome his cold and sleep very well tonight. And Lord be with me concerning my job interview on Wednesday. Please allow me to understand your will and listen to it. I pray that you give me this job, but only if it is your perfect and holy will. Use me wherever I may go. Please forgive me of my sins. Help me to be a better light to my friends. Amen.

Uzbekistan

Did you know that Uzbekistan is one of the least evangelized countries in the world (www.joshuaproject.net)? Did you know it is the 10th most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian? How many times in your life have you thought about the people of Uzbekistan? I went to High School with a foreign exchange student from there. She came to the United States and accepted Christ as her Savior. Her father was a high-ranking government official and her family basically disowned her for recanting her Muslim faith. She had to move back to the United States to flee persecution there. Something serious is going on in Uzbekistan and we must be aware of it.

Population: 27.7 million

Christian Population: 30,000

Leader: Islam Karimov

Prayer Requests:

1) Pray for the small church there to grow despite the hostile environment ment and that Christians would remain steadfast in the faith.

2) Pray for Church leaders as they seek to obtain registration to worship legally.

3) Pray for the family of my friend that they may experience the love of Christ.

4) Pray that the Lord calls missionaries to Uzbekistan and fulfill the Great Commission in this land.

*From http://www.opendoorsusa.org :

Government control of the Uzbek church through the SNB (former KGB) is very strong. All religious communities have to be registered, but it is a long, tiresome and almost impossible process for the Protestant church. Often registration is refused or even withdrawn after it has been granted. There is no Uzbek indigenous church with registration.

Local community leaders put pressure on Christians by cutting off water supplies and/or electricity to force them out of the village or to make them renounce their faith. Almost in every town Mahalla (district) committees ask families to come in for “a conversation’. They threaten Christian families, who then move from one Mahalla to another.

Local and national television stations regularly broadcast programmes about Protestant congregations, shedding a very negative light on Christianity. As a result several individuals suffer severe physical and psychological pressure and many people who are interested in Christianity feel intimidated.

Dear Lord, I pray that you would bless the country of Uzbekistan with your presence. I pray that you would allow the government to let churches obtain their registration permits so they can worship freely. I pray that your church would grow in power despite the hostile conditions of this country. Please strengthen the brothers and sisters there and give them to courage to remain faithful to you. Please allow the family of my friend to experience your love. I pray that my friend’s testimony would lead them to a personal relationship with you. Lord, please send missionaries to the land of Uzbekistan. Lay it on the hearts of your people to be concerned for their family their. Lord, do not let this country be forgotten. Amen.

Uzbekistan is a beautiful country full of color and rich in heritage. Pray that the Lord blesses this country with the riches of the Kingdom of Heaven.